Madeira Funchal:East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana&Laurissilva

The Madeira Funchal: East Tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the island’s stunning landscapes. Travelers can marvel at the majestic Pico do Arieiro, where breathtaking sunrise and sunset views await. They’ll also visit Santana to discover the region’s unique architectural heritage, and journey through the enchanting Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This small-group experience allows for personalized discovery of Madeira’s natural and cultural treasures. What else could this tour have in store?

Key Points

• The Madeira East Tour offers a captivating exploration of the island’s natural wonders, including the volcanic peak of Pico do Arieiro and the UNESCO-listed Ribeiro Frio.
• Pico do Arieiro, at an elevation of 1,818 meters, provides stunning sunrise and sunset views after a short 30-45 minute hike to the summit.
• Ribeiro Frio, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features a unique irrigation system and diverse flora and fauna, offering a tranquil natural respite.
• Santana’s architectural heritage showcases the region’s distinctive thatched-roof, triangular structures built using local materials for thermal insulation.
• The Ponta de São Lourenço hike highlights the dramatic rock formations sculpted by wind and sea, providing breathtaking vistas of Madeira’s raw natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the East Tour of Madeira

Stretching along the eastern side of the island, the Madeira East Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the diverse natural wonders and cultural heritage of this enchanting destination.

From the lofty Pico do Arieiro to the UNESCO-protected Ribeiro Frio, the tour immerses travelers in Madeira’s stunning landscapes.

Highlights include the traditional thatched-roof houses of Santana and the dramatic rock formations of Ponta de São Lourenço.

Along the way, explorers can enjoy short hikes, panoramic viewpoints, and a chance to discover the island’s rich history, all while experiencing the personalized touches of a small-group tour.

Discovering the Breathtaking Pico Do Arieiro

The Pico do Arieiro, standing tall at 1,818 meters (5,965 feet), is the third-highest peak on the island of Madeira. This breathtaking viewpoint offers unparalleled panoramas of the island’s dramatic landscape. Visitors can marvel at the rugged mountains, deep valleys, and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean in the distance.

| Fact | Value |

| — | — |

| Elevation | 1,818 meters (5,965 feet) |

| Peak Type | Volcanic |

| Popularity | High for sunrise and sunset views |

| Accessibility | Accessible by road, with a short hike to the summit |

| Hiking Time | Approximately 30-45 minutes round trip |

The Pico do Arieiro is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Madeira, offering a stunning vantage point to appreciate the island’s natural beauty.

Taking in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ribeiro Frio

After leaving the majestic Pico do Arieiro, the tour continues to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ribeiro Frio.

This lush, forested area is the starting point for many levada walks, offering a peaceful respite from the day’s earlier exhilaration. Visitors can stroll along the levadas, admiring the unique irrigation system and taking in the serene natural surroundings.

The guide provides insights into the history and importance of this protected landscape, which is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.

This tranquil stop offers a chance to reconnect with nature before moving on to the next highlight.

Marveling at the Traditional Thatched Houses of Santana

As the tour winds its way through the lush landscapes, the group arrives at the quaint village of Santana, renowned for its traditional thatched-roof houses.

These distinctive triangular structures, with their thick, straw-thatched roofs, are a unique architectural style found only in this region of Madeira. The guide explains how these homes were built using local materials, providing both thermal insulation and protection from the elements.

Visitors marvel at the charming, well-preserved village, which offers a glimpse into Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour then continues to the next destination, leaving the group with a lasting impression of Santana’s timeless allure.

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Admiring the Glass Walkways Over the Ocean at Guindaste

Moving on from the quaint village of Santana, the tour group now heads to the scenic viewpoint of Guindaste. Here, visitors are treated to a unique experience as they traverse a series of glass walkways that extend over the crashing waves below. The transparent floors offer unobstructed views of the vast Atlantic Ocean, allowing travelers to truly feel immersed in the natural beauty of Madeira.

| Key Highlights | |

|—————-|–|

| Location | Guindaste |

| Attraction | Glass walkways over the ocean |

| Unique Feature | Transparent floors for panoramic ocean views |

| Duration | 20-30 minutes |

| Accessibility | Easy, suitable for all ages |

Uncovering the Historical Sugar Production Site of Porto Da Cruz

Next, the tour group arrives at the historical sugar production site of Porto da Cruz.

The area was once a thriving center of sugar cane processing, with a beautiful promenade along the shoreline. Guests can explore the remnants of the old sugar mills and learn about the island’s rich history of sugar production.

The guide shares insights into the significant role this industry played in Madeira’s economic development.

With free time to wander, travelers can soak in the charming atmosphere and scenic ocean views that make Porto da Cruz a memorable stop on the East Tour.

Gazing Upon the Stunning Pico Do Facho Overlook

After exploring the historical sugar production site of Porto da Cruz, the tour group makes its way to the Pico do Facho overlook.

This scenic viewpoint offers a panoramic vista of Machico, the island’s old capital. Perched atop a cliff, Pico do Facho provides a breathtaking outlook over the vibrant blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Visitors can marvel at the rugged coastline and lush greenery that typify Madeira’s natural beauty. The overlook’s strategic location makes it an ideal spot for capturing stunning photographs and taking in the island’s picturesque landscapes.

Encountering the Unique Rock Formations of Ponta De São Lourenço

As the tour group departs from the Pico do Facho overlook, they make their way to the Ponta de São Lourenço, a captivating natural wonder on the easternmost tip of Madeira.

The rugged landscape features unique rock formations, sculpted by wind and sea over millennia. Dramatic cliffs, carved into intricate shapes, tower above the azure waters.

The rugged landscape of Ponta de São Lourenço boasts unique rock formations sculpted by the elements over centuries, towering above the azure waters.

The group embarks on a leisurely hike, marveling at the otherworldly vistas. They pause to photograph the mesmerizing interplay of land and sea, capturing the essence of this remarkable geological marvel.

Ponta de São Lourenço’s raw beauty leaves a lasting impression on all who witness its splendor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Beyond the Scheduled 7 Hours?

The East Tour of Madeira has a scheduled duration of 7 hours. While it’s possible to extend the tour, this would likely incur additional costs and require prior arrangement with the tour operator. Customers should check with the tour company about any options for extending the tour.

Is There an Option to Book Private Transportation for the Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers a private transportation option for the East Tour of Madeira. Customers can book a private vehicle and driver for the duration of the 7-hour tour, providing a more personalized experience.

Do the Guides Provide Recommendations for Local Cuisine or Restaurants?

The tour guides often provide recommendations for local cuisine and restaurants that showcase Madeira’s unique culinary offerings. They can suggest the best spots to sample traditional dishes and regional specialties during the free time at the various stops.

Can I Make Changes to the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

Yes, customers can typically request changes to the itinerary to visit specific sites, though this may incur additional costs. The tour operator aims to accommodate reasonable requests to provide a personalized experience.

Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions for the Tour Activities?

The tour has no age or mobility restrictions, but some light hiking is involved. Guests with mobility concerns should discuss their needs with the operator to ensure they can fully participate in the activities.

The Sum Up

The Madeira Funchal East Tour offers a captivating exploration of the island’s natural wonders. From the breathtaking Pico do Arieiro to the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, travelers can enjoy Madeira’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether marveling at the traditional thatched houses of Santana or taking in the awe-inspiring ocean views, this small-group experience provides an unforgettable glimpse into the essence of this enchanting Portuguese island.

You can check availability for your dates here: